Discovering Monticchiello

Tucked away among the rolling Tuscan landscape south of Siena in the heart of the Val d’Orcia is what I consider to be one of the most beautiful medieval villages in all of Tuscany. Largely overlooked by tourists, which is a good thing, Monticchiello has managed to retain both its physical and cultural history.

Perched high on a hill overlooking the valley, the entrance to the village from the Porta Sant’Agata (city gate) offers absolutely stunning views across the valley to Pienza. This extraordinarily beautiful region of Tuscany, the Val d'Orcia, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004. We stumbled onto this Tuscan gem, Monticchiello, not by accident, but at the suggestion of our host, Giacomo, at the Agriturismo Le Caggiole.

The view from the Porta Sant'Agata looking over the Val d' Orcia toward Pienza. | Source

Arriving in Monticchiello early in the day, we found ourselves almost alone in the village among the few locals who were out. Sensing that we were tourists, we were approached by a few of the residents for some interesting conversation in which they understood no English and we understood very little Italian. Despite the obvious language barrier, we somehow managed to communicate with these warm and hospitable folks.

Strolling through Monticchiello, one can imagine that this village has probably changed little over the centuries. The remaining towers, one of which is now privately owned, hearken back to the day when they were fortifications to defend the village. It seems as though time has frozen for Monticchiello. With less than 200 inhabitants, many locals occupy the Porta Sant’Agata to greet the limited number of tourists that find their way here. As there is only one way in and one way out of Monticchiello, it is easy to notice visitors heading up the hill from the parking area below.

Once inside the walls of this ancient village, you will immediately notice that the locals take great pride in their dwellings. Nearly every home is adorned with blooming pots of flowers and the laundry hanging overhead seems to add to the ambiance of this charming place. The village center is dominated by the Church of Santi Leonardo and Christoforo which dates back to the 13th century. Take some time to walk through the church and admire the frescoes while you are here. With virtually no other tourists around you can move with ease and not feel rushed.

Scenes from Monticchiello

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That's Monticchiello in the upper right hand corner with the Towers | Source

This gentleman greeted us when we arrived. We nicknamed him the "Mayor" of Monticchiello. | Source

Piazza in village center | Source

Where did everyone go? | Source

Church of Santi Leonardo and Christoforo. Notice the Frescoes on the walls. | Source

If you happen upon Monticchiello during the summer months from mid-July to mid-August, make it a point to see the “Teatro Povero” (Poor Theatre). This nightly theatrical experience is written, directed, and recited by the residents of Monticchiello as a testament to the life and history of its people. Although we did not get to experience the theatre in September, I would imagine this to be a highlight of Monticchiello.

For a couple of restaurant suggestions, stop by either La Taverna di Moranda or Osteria La Porta. You can check Tripadvisor for reviews of both restaurants. If you are looking for outdoor seating with a view of the valley then opt for Osteria La Porta. If the view is not of concern then consider La Taverna di Moranda. This family-owned Bistro with its stone walls, vaulted beamed ceilings, and unique archways, offers a truly Tuscan atmosphere.

La Taverna di Moranda

La Taverna di Moranda | Source

Osteria La Porta

Outdooe terrace of Osteria La Porta | Source

So, if you find yourself heading to southern Tuscany, make it a point to visit Monticchiello. The more well-known Tuscan towns that everyone visits such as Siena, San Gimignano, and Montepulciano, are all beautiful in their own right, but they can also be overrun with tourists depending on when you visit. For a more relaxed atmosphere and experience, try one of Tuscany’s truly overlooked gems.

Comments

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Bill De Giulio 5 years agofrom Massachusetts

Hi Grace, thanks for visiting Monticchiello with me. It certainly is a beautiful place. I hope you get there some day.

Author

Bill De Giulio 5 years agofrom Massachusetts

Thanks diasy, appreciate the nice comments. Italy has definitely been my thing for the last few years, you might say I'm addicted to it right now. Thanks for stopping by.

Grace Whites 5 years agofrom Manalapan, New Jersey, USA

Wow, nice photos. I hope that I can visit on that place too. Thanks for sharing them.

daisynicolas 5 years agofrom Alaska

Why read AAA's Travel Guide, when you do it better? I know where to look for my Italian trips, then.

Author

Bill De Giulio 5 years agofrom Massachusetts

Thank You Peggy. We had never heard of Monticchiello until our Agriturismo host recommended that we stop there. It really is a wonderful place and a great example of the true Tuscan life. Thank you for the vote and nice comments.

Peggy Woods 5 years agofrom Houston, Texas

Thanks Bill for your delightful photos and also telling us about the charming town of Monticchiello in Tuscany. It truly does look like an overlooked gem of a place! Voted up, useful, beautiful and sharing with my followers.